YOUNG John O'Shea will stand tall for club and country as an inspirational captain, says former United star Arthur Albiston.

Albiston, an ex-Scottish international full-back, said: "John has the makings of a future captain both for United and the Republic of Ireland.

"He is a wonderful prospect who shows great maturity and he has so much to offer.

"United have unearthed a lad who can play anywhere. O'Shea has a great career ahead of him.

'Like a duck to water'

"He has not been phased by stepping up to play at the highest level.

"Full credit to the lad for adapting to the first team like a duck to water - he offers so much.

"John is a clever, footballing centre half who can play anywhere in the back four. He looks comfortable, he can use both feet and he is highly effective."

Albiston praises United's famed youth system for the emergence of O'Shea.

"The United fans are understandably excited at seeing a talent like this coming through. Yet again a lot of credit must go to the youth system," he said.

'Great reader'

"O'Shea reads the game well and you can see he is cut out to be a future captain. For the next ten or 12 years I am convinced he will form the backbone of the Irish international side.

"I would have taken him to the last World Cup because the experience at this level would have done him a power of good.

"He has greatly impressed me this season and his progress is there for all to see. I am a big fan because he is so calm and collected and never ever panics. You would think John has already played for five years at the top.

"He recently played in midfield in the Worthington Cup match at Burnley and did not look out of place here - this is the sign of a quality player.

"The lad is doing very well and his best years are ahead of him - he is going to be some player."